Ireland is one of those places that everyone wants to visit. With rolling hills, a beautiful coastline, old buildings and monuments and great Guinness, it’s no wonder that people flock from far and wide to visit the Emerald Isle. While you’re exploring the breathtaking Irish countryside, navigating your way through small country roads and zigzagging through the patchwork fields of the country, you might think back to friends and family who aren’t lucky enough to be there with you.
Bringing back a great Irish souvenir is the best way to let them know that you had them in your thoughts. But what gift do you choose? The choice can be somewhat overwhelming, so to help you out here is our list of the top ten Irish gifts to bring home this summer.
- Irish MusicIrish music or ‘ceol’, as it’s called in the native Irish tongue, is one of the things that makes Ireland stand out from its European counterparts. The music is infectious; tin whistles, guitars, fiddles and the bodhrán, come together to play traditional Irish music. Pick up a CD of some famous Irish music like Christy Moore, The Pogues, The Dubliners or Mary Black.
- Aran SweatersThe Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland are known for producing the Aran sweater. Once upon a time they were handmade by local fishermen to protect against the harsh weather on the islands, but now these traditional knitwear jumpers are sold all over the country and make a great Irish gift.
- Smoked SalmonIreland is well known for producing some of the best smoked salmon in Europe. Caught in the wild Atlantic seas off the Irish coast, it’s eaten by the locals on soda bread, mixed up in salads and put in sandwiches. Although it won’t last a lifetime, smoked salmon gives off a real taste of Ireland.
- WhiskeyWhiskey as Gaeilge is ‘uisce beatha’, literally meaning ‘water of life’. Ireland is known all over the world for its production of world class whiskeys and it makes a great gift for those at home. Irish whiskey brands to consider are Bushmillls, Jameson, Paddy Powers and Midleton.
- Irish CrystalIf you are looking for something extra special for someone at home this summer then look into Irish Crystal. Waterford Crystal, from the south east of the country, is probably the most well-known but there are a lot of other great choices too.
- Book Of Irish StoriesAs a nation of storytellers, Ireland is synonymous with fairytales and folk stories. These stories all carry a message and a book of these tales would make an excellent gift for an adult or a child.
- BodhránA bodhrán is a traditional Irish frame drum. It’s used in traditional Irish music and makes a very unique gift. Tourist shops often sell them with Irish messages or Celtic symbols painted onto the face of the drum and they often come with a lesson book.
- Guinness MerchandiseAs the home of Guinness there is no shortage of merchandise related to the ‘black stuff’. T-shirts, slippers, key chains, posters and even little foam pints are all available and make for a fun gift.
- DVD of Irish DancingMade famous the world over by the touring ‘River Dance’ performance, Irish dance is different to any other in the world. Why not pick up a DVD of this unique dance for friends or family who are at home.
- A piece of auld sod.This is perhaps the most unique gift of all. You can actually buy a pre-packed piece of Irish turf to burn at home and bring the warmth of Ireland back to your family and friends, how great is that!?
